US20040097338A1 - Exercise device - Google Patents
Exercise device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20040097338A1 US20040097338A1 US10/608,845 US60884503A US2004097338A1 US 20040097338 A1 US20040097338 A1 US 20040097338A1 US 60884503 A US60884503 A US 60884503A US 2004097338 A1 US2004097338 A1 US 2004097338A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- base
- levers
- arms
- movement
- rotatable
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0048—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis
- A63B22/0056—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis the pivoting movement being in a vertical plane, e.g. steppers with a horizontal axis
- A63B22/0058—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis the pivoting movement being in a vertical plane, e.g. steppers with a horizontal axis the vertical plane being the frontal body-plane
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
- A63B21/4041—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof characterised by the movements of the interface
- A63B21/4047—Pivoting movement
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0048—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis
- A63B22/0056—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis the pivoting movement being in a vertical plane, e.g. steppers with a horizontal axis
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0025—Particular aspects relating to the orientation of movement paths of the limbs relative to the body; Relative relationship between the movements of the limbs
- A63B2022/0028—Particular aspects relating to the orientation of movement paths of the limbs relative to the body; Relative relationship between the movements of the limbs the movement path being non-parallel to the body-symmetrical-plane, e.g. support elements moving at an angle to the body-symmetrical-plane
- A63B2022/003—Particular aspects relating to the orientation of movement paths of the limbs relative to the body; Relative relationship between the movements of the limbs the movement path being non-parallel to the body-symmetrical-plane, e.g. support elements moving at an angle to the body-symmetrical-plane the movement path being perpendicular to the body-symmetrical-plane
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0025—Particular aspects relating to the orientation of movement paths of the limbs relative to the body; Relative relationship between the movements of the limbs
- A63B2022/0038—One foot moving independently from the other, i.e. there is no link between the movements of the feet
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0048—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis
- A63B2022/0053—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis each support element being cantilevered by a parallelogram system
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/04—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs
- A63B23/0405—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs involving a bending of the knee and hip joints simultaneously
- A63B23/0429—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs involving a bending of the knee and hip joints simultaneously with guided foot supports moving parallel to the body-symmetrical-plane by being cantilevered about a horizontal axis
- A63B2023/0447—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs involving a bending of the knee and hip joints simultaneously with guided foot supports moving parallel to the body-symmetrical-plane by being cantilevered about a horizontal axis the axis being in the body-symmetrical-plane
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/012—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using frictional force-resisters
- A63B21/015—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using frictional force-resisters including rotating or oscillating elements rubbing against fixed elements
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/22—Resisting devices with rotary bodies
- A63B21/225—Resisting devices with rotary bodies with flywheels
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2208/00—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player
- A63B2208/02—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player posture
- A63B2208/0204—Standing on the feet
Definitions
- a regimen of regular exercise is beneficial to the general physical well being of a person.
- outdoor exercise e.g., walking or jogging is preferable
- the vagaries of the weather and other factors often preclude adherence to a regular outdoor exercise program.
- numerous indoor exercise devices have been developed ranging from the familiar treadmills and stationary bicycles to complex, elaborate apparatus designed to simulate stair climbing or other body exercising functions. Many such complex devices are not only quite expensive, but due to their size are not readily portable or easily storable and moreover, require frequent maintenance.
- the exercise device of the present invention has a base having two side members and front member that extends between the side members. At least one truss member extends from the base. A rotatable shaft is positioned on the truss member and a flywheel is mounted on the shaft. A rotatable drive shaft is mounted on the truss member and a first one-way clutch and a second one-way clutch are mounted on the drive shaft. A means is provided for operatively connecting the drive shaft to the rotatable shaft whereby rotation of the drive shaft causes the rotatable shaft to rotate. A pair of arms have a first end that is pivotally mounted on the base and a second end that extends from the base. A foot pad is positioned on the second end of each of the arms.
- the foot pads are disposed to move in an arcuate path towards and away from the side members of the base and the movement of the foot pads is in a direction that is substantially parallel to the front member of the base.
- a lever is operatively connected to each arm whereby movement of the arms causes a movement of the levers.
- a means is provided for operatively connecting one of the levers to the first one-way clutch and the other lever to the second one-way clutch whereby movement of the arms towards the base causes the levers to rotate the first and second one-way clutches in a direction that causes the drive shaft to rotate which in turn rotates the shaft upon which the flywheel is mounted.
- the flywheel provides resistance to movement of the arms and the levers. Movement of the arms away from the base rotates the levers in a direction that does not activate the first and second one-way clutches and does not cause the drive shaft to rotate.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the invention
- FIG. 2 is a front elevational view
- FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 3 - 3 in FIG. 2;
- FIG. 4 is a partial back view
- FIG. 5 is a front-elevational view of another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 6 is a side-elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 5.
- the present invention is directed to an exercise device for providing movement to the lower extremities of a user. More particularly, the-exercise device utilizes a side-to-side stepping motion for exercising the major muscle groups of the lower extremities.
- the exercise device 5 as shown in FIGS. 1 - 4 has a substantially U-shaped base 7 having two side members 9 and a front member 11 . Positioned on the U-shaped base 7 is a first truss member 15 and a second truss member 17 .
- the first and second truss members 15 and 17 are positioned to extend from one side member 9 to the opposite side member 9 of the U-shaped base 7 .
- the first and second truss members 15 and 17 are positioned at the end of the side members 9 that is spaced apart from the front member 11 .
- the first and second truss members 15 and 17 extend in a substantially vertical or perpendicular direction from the U-shaped base 7 .
- the first truss member 15 and second truss member 17 each have a horizontal base 21 that is positioned to be in contact with each side member 9 of the U-shaped base 7 .
- Each truss member has sides 23 that extend from the horizontal base 21 in a substantially vertical direction.
- the sides 23 are generally converging as they extend from the horizontal base 21 and a top cross member 25 is secured to the end of the sides 23 that is spaced apart from the horizontal base 21 .
- the top cross member 25 is disposed to be substantially parallel to the horizontal base 21 .
- a brace 27 extends between the sides 23 of the first and second truss members 15 and 17 .
- the brace 27 is disposed so that it is substantially midway between the horizontal base 21 and the top cross member 25 .
- the brace 27 is positioned so that it is substantially parallel to the horizontal base 21 .
- the top cross member 25 is usually between one-third and about two-thirds the length of the horizontal base 21 .
- a plate 31 is secured to the top cross member 25 on the first truss member 15 and the top cross member 25 on the second truss member 17 .
- the plate 31 maintains the first and second truss members 15 and 17 in the same spaced apart relationship that is established by the positioning of the first and second truss members on the U-shaped base 7 . Accordingly, the sides 23 and top cross members 25 are maintained in substantially parallel relationship.
- a mounting bracket 37 extends between the top cross member 25 and the brace 27 on the first truss member 15 .
- a connecting bracket 41 Positioned on the plate 31 is a connecting bracket 41 that is configured to securely retain a stem 45 .
- the stem 45 extends substantially vertically from the plate 31 .
- the stem 45 has a neck portion 47 that extends from the stem 45 in a direction toward the front member 11 of the U-shaped base 7 .
- the neck portion 47 has an aperture 49 for receiving a hand grip bar 53 .
- the hand grip bar 53 can have substantially horizontal hand grips 55 and substantially vertical hand grips 57 .
- a computer display 61 can be mounted on the end of the stem 45 that is spaced apart from the connecting bracket 41 .
- a shaft 65 extends between the brace 27 on the first truss member 15 and the brace 27 on the second truss member 17 .
- a one-way clutch 67 having a sprocket 69 is mounted on the shaft 65 adjacent to the first truss member 15 .
- a flywheel 73 is mounted on the shaft 65 adjacent to the one-way clutch 67 .
- a washer 77 , a counter wheel 79 and a spacer 81 are positioned on the shaft 65 between the flywheel 73 and the brace 27 on the second truss member 17 .
- the counter wheel 79 is secured to the shaft 65 so that the counter wheel 79 rotates when the flywheel 73 is caused to rotate.
- a counting pickup 85 Connected to the brace 27 on the second truss member 17 is a counting pickup 85 that is disposed to interact with the counter wheel 79 mounted on the shaft 65 .
- the counting pickup 85 monitors the rotation of the counter wheel 79 to give communication of the speed of rotation of the flywheel 73 .
- a groove 71 is positioned in the outer periphery of the flywheel 73 .
- a tension belt 75 is positioned in the groove 71 for providing resistance to rotation for the flywheel 73 .
- a drive shaft 91 is rotatably mounted in a aperture 93 on the mounting bracket 37 that extends between the brace 27 and the top cross member 25 on the first truss member 15 .
- a sprocket 95 is secured to the drive shaft 91 on the side of the mounting bracket 37 that is adjacent to the flywheel 73 .
- a drive means 99 such as a chain operatively connects the sprocket 95 on the drive shaft 91 with the sprocket 69 connected to the one-way clutch 67 mounted on the shaft 65 .
- Positioned on the drive shaft 91 is a first one-way clutch 103 and a second one-way clutch 107 .
- a sprocket 109 is mounted on the first one-way clutch 103 and a sprocket 111 is mounted on the second one-way clutch 107 .
- a support flange 115 is secured to the front member 11 of the U-shaped base 7 .
- a pair of rotatable cylinders 119 extend between the support flange 115 and the horizontal base 21 of the first truss member 15 .
- the rotatable cylinders 119 are mounted in a manner whereby they are free to rotate around the longitudinal axis of each cylinder.
- An arm 123 is secured to each rotatable cylinder 119 on the end of the cylinders that is adjacent the support flange 115 .
- a foot pad 127 having a base plate 129 is pivotally secured to the end of each arm 123 that is spaced apart from the rotatable cylinders 119 .
- the base plate 129 is positioned beneath each foot pad 127 and the base plate 129 is secured to the arms 123 in a manner to allow the foot pads 127 to be pivotally mounted on the arms 123 .
- a link member 133 is positioned to extend from the base plate 129 to the front member 11 of the U-shaped base 7 .
- the link member 133 is pivotally secured to the base plate 129 and to the front member 11 .
- the link member 133 is positioned so that it is not quite parallel to the arms 123 .
- the link members 133 and arm members 123 cooperate to maintain the foot pads 127 at an angle of about 10° to about 20° with respect to the surface upon which the exercise device 5 is positioned.
- the link members 133 are disposed to maintain this angular relationship as the foot pads 127 rotate with the arms 123 .
- a pair of stops 137 Positioned on the front member 11 of the U-shaped base 7 are a pair of stops 137 .
- the stops 137 extend upwardly from the front member 11 and have a cushion region 139 on the end that is spaced apart from the front member 11 .
- the stops 137 are disposed on the front member 11 to engage the foot pads 127 to stop further downward rotation of the foot pads 127 .
- a lever 145 is secured to each rotatable cylinder 119 on the end of the cylinder that is adjacent the horizontal base 21 of the first truss member 15 .
- the levers 145 are disposed to extend upwardly from the rotatable cylinders 119 and are disposed at an angle that is substantially the same as the angle at which the arms 123 are positioned on the rotatable cylinders 119 .
- a chain 149 is connected to the end of each lever 145 that is spaced apart from the rotatable cylinders 119 .
- the chain 149 that is connected to one lever 145 extends around the first one-way clutch 103 and the chain 149 from the other lever arm 145 extends around the second one-way clutch 107 .
- the ends of the chains 149 that are spaced apart from the levers 145 are connected to a spring member 155 .
- the spring members 155 extend from the chains 149 around idler rolls 157 and the ends of the spring members 155 that is opposite to the end that is connected to the chains 149 is secured to a hook 159 that is mounted on the top cross member 25 of the first truss member 15 .
- the chains 149 are positioned on the first one-way clutch 103 and second one-way clutch 107 so that the clutches are engaged and cause the drive shaft 91 to rotate when the foot pads 127 are moved in a direction toward the U-shaped base 7 of the exercise device 5 .
- the first one-way clutch 103 and second one-way clutch 107 are not engaged and they can rotate freely and without causing the drive shaft 91 to rotate.
- a tension control 163 Positioned on the horizontal base 21 of the first truss member 15 is a tension control 163 .
- the tension control 163 is connected to the tension belt 75 that is positioned in the groove 71 in the flywheel 73 .
- the tension control 163 can be activated to increase or decrease the tension on the tension belt 75 to vary the resistance to rotation for the flywheel 73 .
- a person desiring to use the exercise device 5 will position his feet on the foot pads 127 and place his hands on the hand grip bar 53 .
- the user will stand in a relatively upright or vertical position on the exercise device 5 .
- the user directs a larger portion of his body weight onto one of the foot pads 127 causing the foot pad to rotate on the rotatable cylinder 119 in a direction toward the side members 9 of the U-shaped base 7 .
- This motion for the foot pad 127 will also cause lever 145 to rotate in the same direction toward the U-shaped base 7 .
- the chain 149 connected to the lever 145 is also caused to advance in a direction that will cause either the first one-way clutch 103 or the second one-way clutch 107 to be rotated in a direction whereby the one-way clutch engages the drive shaft 91 and causes the drive shaft 91 to be rotated.
- the advancement of the chain 149 causes the spring member 155 connected to the chain to be elongated.
- the lever 145 connected to this fool pad through the rotatable cylinder 119 will cause the chain 149 to advance over one of the one-way clutches in a direction that engages a one-way clutch and causes the drive shaft 91 to rotate.
- the opposite foot pad 127 is rotated away from the U-shaped base 7 by the force of the spring member 155 acting through the chain 149 on the lever 145 connected to the rotatable cylinder 119 on which the foot pad 127 is connected.
- the direction of travel of the chain 149 over the first or second one-way clutch is such that the clutch is not engaged and the clutch free wheels around the drive shaft 91 .
- the drive shaft 91 is alternatively driven by the foot pads 127 as they are advanced toward the U-shaped base 7 .
- the return motion of the foot pads 127 away from the U-shaped base 7 does not engage the one-way clutches and does not cause the drive shaft 91 to rotate.
- the foot pads 127 can be advanced toward the U-shaped base 7 until the foot pads engage the stops 137 positioned on the front member 11 of the U-shaped base.
- the motion that the user imparts to the foot pads 127 is a sideways motion. That is, the user causes his foot to move in a sideways direction as said foot pads 127 are caused to advance toward said side members 9 of the U-shaped base 7 .
- the right foot will move to the right and the left foot will move to the left as the user activates the exercise device 5 .
- the motion experienced by the user's feet on the foot pads 127 is substantially perpendicular to the motion experienced by a person's feet when walking or running.
- the movement of the foot pads 127 is in a direction that is substantially parallel to the front member 11 of the base 7 .
- Rotation of the drive shaft 91 causes the sprocket 95 to rotate along with the drive shaft 91 .
- Rotation of the sprocket 95 causes the drive means 99 to be advanced in a direction that engages the one-way clutch 67 that is positioned on shaft 65 .
- the engagement of the one-way clutch 67 causes the shaft 65 to rotate which in turn results in the rotation of the flywheel 73 that is secured to the shaft 65 .
- Rotation of the shaft 65 also results in the counter wheel 79 rotating and the counting pickup 85 can be utilized to determine the rotational speed of the flywheel 73 .
- Rotation of the flywheel 73 is inhibited by the action of the tension belt 75 positioned in the groove 71 on the flywheel 73 .
- the tension control device 163 can be activated to increase the tension in the belt 75 and thereby either increase or decrease the resistance to rotation for the flywheel 73 .
- Increasing or decreasing the resistance to rotation for the flywheel also acts to increase or decrease the resistance necessary to move the foot pads 127 in a direction toward the U-shaped base 7 .
- the one-way clutch 67 is designed so that the shaft 65 can rotate freely when the sprocket 69 is not being advanced in a direction that causes the one-way clutch 67 to be activated. This allows the flywheel 73 to continue to rotate smoothly if the user of the exercise device 5 stops advancing the foot pads 127 .
- the link member 133 acts to control the angular position of the foot pads 127 .
- the link member 133 maintains the foot pads 127 at an angle that is substantially about 10° to about 20° throughout the range of motion for the foot pads 127 .
- FIGS. 5 and 6 show another embodiment of the present invention. To facilitate the description of this embodiment, the components that are the same as in the embodiment previously described will retain the same reference numerals, and only the different components will be given new reference numerals.
- the foot pads 127 are secured to the rotatable cylinders 11 9 in the manner previously described.
- a single truss member 167 having a horizontal base 169 , sides 171 and a top cross member 173 is positioned on the end of the U-shaped base 7 that is spaced apart from the front member 11 .
- a lever 175 is connected to the rotatable cylinders 119 on the end that is spaced apart from the arms 123 that support the foot pads 127 .
- a shaft 177 is secured to each lever 175 and the shaft extends from the lever in a direction toward the single truss member 167 .
- a pair of rods 179 extend through the top cross member 173 of the single truss member 167 .
- One end of a hydraulic cylinder 183 is connected to each rod 179 .
- the opposite end of the hydraulic cylinder is connected to the shaft 177 that extends from the lever 175 mounted on the rotatable cylinders 119 .
- the hydraulic cylinders 183 are one-way hydraulic cylinders and only provide resistance when the cylinders are being extended. When the hydraulic cylinders are being compressed, there is essentially no resistance to this motion for the hydraulic cylinder.
- Positioned on the end of the rod 179 that is on the opposite side of the single truss member 167 from the hydraulic cylinder 185 is an idler roll 185 .
- a spring 187 Positioned around the idler roll 185 is a spring 187 .
- One end of the spring 187 is secured to a plate 189 that is connected to the top cross member 173 .
- the other end of the spring 187 is secured to the end of the shaft 177 that is spaced apart from the lever 175 .
- FIGS. 5 and 6 The operation of the exercise device shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 is very similar to the operation previously described.
- the hydraulic cylinder 183 operatively connected through the rotatable cylinders 119 to the foot pad will be caused to extend or elongate.
- the extension of the hydraulic cylinder will present resistance to this motion for the foot pad 127 .
- the spring 187 will also be elongated also providing resistance to this motion for the foot pad 127 .
Abstract
The exercise device of the present invention has a base having two side members and front member that extends between the side members. At least one truss member extends from the base. A rotatable shaft is positioned on the truss member and a flywheel is mounted on the shaft. A rotatable drive shaft is mounted on the truss member and a first one-way clutch and a second one-way clutch are mounted on the drive shaft. A means is provided for operatively connecting the drive shaft to the rotatable shaft whereby rotation of the drive shaft causes the rotatable shaft to rotate. A pair of arms have a first end that is pivotally mounted on the base and a second end that extends from the base. A foot pad is positioned on the second end of each of the arms. The foot pads are disposed to move in an arcuate path towards and away from the side members of the base and the movement of the foot pads is in a direction that is substantially parallel to the front member of the base. A lever is operatively connected to each arm whereby movement of the arms causes a movement of the levers. A means is provided for operatively connecting one of the levers to the first one-way clutch and the other lever to the second one-way clutch whereby movement of the arms towards the base causes the levers to rotate the first and second one-way clutches in a direction that causes the drive shaft to rotate which in turn rotates the shaft upon which the flywheel is mounted. The flywheel provides resistance to movement of the arms and the levers. Movement of the arms away from the base rotates the levers in a direction that does not activate the first and second one-way clutches and does not cause the drive shaft to rotate.
Description
- A regimen of regular exercise is beneficial to the general physical well being of a person. Although outdoor exercise, e.g., walking or jogging is preferable, the vagaries of the weather and other factors often preclude adherence to a regular outdoor exercise program. To this end, numerous indoor exercise devices have been developed ranging from the familiar treadmills and stationary bicycles to complex, elaborate apparatus designed to simulate stair climbing or other body exercising functions. Many such complex devices are not only quite expensive, but due to their size are not readily portable or easily storable and moreover, require frequent maintenance.
- It is therefore the principal object of this invention to provide a compact, reliable exercise and body toning apparatus, particularly for exercising and toning the lower body, which is both simple to use and usable by persons having a wide range of strength capabilities.
- The exercise device of the present invention has a base having two side members and front member that extends between the side members. At least one truss member extends from the base. A rotatable shaft is positioned on the truss member and a flywheel is mounted on the shaft. A rotatable drive shaft is mounted on the truss member and a first one-way clutch and a second one-way clutch are mounted on the drive shaft. A means is provided for operatively connecting the drive shaft to the rotatable shaft whereby rotation of the drive shaft causes the rotatable shaft to rotate. A pair of arms have a first end that is pivotally mounted on the base and a second end that extends from the base. A foot pad is positioned on the second end of each of the arms. The foot pads are disposed to move in an arcuate path towards and away from the side members of the base and the movement of the foot pads is in a direction that is substantially parallel to the front member of the base. A lever is operatively connected to each arm whereby movement of the arms causes a movement of the levers. A means is provided for operatively connecting one of the levers to the first one-way clutch and the other lever to the second one-way clutch whereby movement of the arms towards the base causes the levers to rotate the first and second one-way clutches in a direction that causes the drive shaft to rotate which in turn rotates the shaft upon which the flywheel is mounted. The flywheel provides resistance to movement of the arms and the levers. Movement of the arms away from the base rotates the levers in a direction that does not activate the first and second one-way clutches and does not cause the drive shaft to rotate.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the invention;
- FIG. 2 is a front elevational view;
- FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line3-3 in FIG. 2;
- FIG. 4 is a partial back view;
- FIG. 5 is a front-elevational view of another embodiment of the invention;
- FIG. 6 is a side-elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 5.
- The present invention is directed to an exercise device for providing movement to the lower extremities of a user. More particularly, the-exercise device utilizes a side-to-side stepping motion for exercising the major muscle groups of the lower extremities. The features of the invention will be more clearly understood by referring to the accompanying drawings and the following specification.
- The
exercise device 5 as shown in FIGS. 1-4 has a substantially U-shaped base 7 having twoside members 9 and afront member 11. Positioned on the U-shaped base 7 is afirst truss member 15 and asecond truss member 17. The first andsecond truss members side member 9 to theopposite side member 9 of the U-shaped base 7. The first andsecond truss members side members 9 that is spaced apart from thefront member 11. The first andsecond truss members - The
first truss member 15 andsecond truss member 17 each have ahorizontal base 21 that is positioned to be in contact with eachside member 9 of the U-shaped base 7. Each truss member hassides 23 that extend from thehorizontal base 21 in a substantially vertical direction. Thesides 23 are generally converging as they extend from thehorizontal base 21 and atop cross member 25 is secured to the end of thesides 23 that is spaced apart from thehorizontal base 21. Thetop cross member 25 is disposed to be substantially parallel to thehorizontal base 21. Abrace 27 extends between thesides 23 of the first andsecond truss members brace 27 is disposed so that it is substantially midway between thehorizontal base 21 and thetop cross member 25. Thebrace 27 is positioned so that it is substantially parallel to thehorizontal base 21. As thesides 23 converge as they extend upwardly from thehorizontal base 21, thetop cross member 25 is usually between one-third and about two-thirds the length of thehorizontal base 21. Aplate 31 is secured to thetop cross member 25 on thefirst truss member 15 and thetop cross member 25 on thesecond truss member 17. Theplate 31 maintains the first andsecond truss members sides 23 andtop cross members 25 are maintained in substantially parallel relationship. Amounting bracket 37 extends between thetop cross member 25 and thebrace 27 on thefirst truss member 15. - Positioned on the
plate 31 is a connectingbracket 41 that is configured to securely retain astem 45. Thestem 45 extends substantially vertically from theplate 31. Thestem 45 has a neck portion 47 that extends from thestem 45 in a direction toward thefront member 11 of the U-shaped base 7. The neck portion 47 has anaperture 49 for receiving ahand grip bar 53. Thehand grip bar 53 can have substantiallyhorizontal hand grips 55 and substantiallyvertical hand grips 57. Acomputer display 61 can be mounted on the end of thestem 45 that is spaced apart from the connectingbracket 41. - A
shaft 65 extends between thebrace 27 on thefirst truss member 15 and thebrace 27 on thesecond truss member 17. A one-way clutch 67 having asprocket 69 is mounted on theshaft 65 adjacent to thefirst truss member 15. Aflywheel 73 is mounted on theshaft 65 adjacent to the one-way clutch 67. Awasher 77, a counter wheel 79 and aspacer 81 are positioned on theshaft 65 between theflywheel 73 and thebrace 27 on thesecond truss member 17. The counter wheel 79 is secured to theshaft 65 so that the counter wheel 79 rotates when theflywheel 73 is caused to rotate. Connected to thebrace 27 on thesecond truss member 17 is a countingpickup 85 that is disposed to interact with the counter wheel 79 mounted on theshaft 65. The countingpickup 85 monitors the rotation of the counter wheel 79 to give communication of the speed of rotation of theflywheel 73. A groove 71 is positioned in the outer periphery of theflywheel 73. Atension belt 75 is positioned in the groove 71 for providing resistance to rotation for theflywheel 73. - A
drive shaft 91 is rotatably mounted in a aperture 93 on themounting bracket 37 that extends between thebrace 27 and thetop cross member 25 on thefirst truss member 15. Asprocket 95 is secured to thedrive shaft 91 on the side of themounting bracket 37 that is adjacent to theflywheel 73. A drive means 99 such as a chain operatively connects thesprocket 95 on thedrive shaft 91 with thesprocket 69 connected to the one-way clutch 67 mounted on theshaft 65. Positioned on thedrive shaft 91 is a first one-way clutch 103 and a second one-way clutch 107. Asprocket 109 is mounted on the first one-way clutch 103 and a sprocket 111 is mounted on the second one-way clutch 107. - A
support flange 115 is secured to thefront member 11 of the U-shaped base 7. A pair ofrotatable cylinders 119 extend between thesupport flange 115 and thehorizontal base 21 of thefirst truss member 15. Therotatable cylinders 119 are mounted in a manner whereby they are free to rotate around the longitudinal axis of each cylinder. Anarm 123 is secured to eachrotatable cylinder 119 on the end of the cylinders that is adjacent thesupport flange 115. Afoot pad 127 having abase plate 129 is pivotally secured to the end of eacharm 123 that is spaced apart from therotatable cylinders 119. Thebase plate 129 is positioned beneath eachfoot pad 127 and thebase plate 129 is secured to thearms 123 in a manner to allow thefoot pads 127 to be pivotally mounted on thearms 123. Alink member 133 is positioned to extend from thebase plate 129 to thefront member 11 of the U-shaped base 7. Thelink member 133 is pivotally secured to thebase plate 129 and to thefront member 11. Thelink member 133 is positioned so that it is not quite parallel to thearms 123. Thelink members 133 andarm members 123 cooperate to maintain thefoot pads 127 at an angle of about 10° to about 20° with respect to the surface upon which theexercise device 5 is positioned. Thelink members 133 are disposed to maintain this angular relationship as thefoot pads 127 rotate with thearms 123. Positioned on thefront member 11 of the U-shaped base 7 are a pair ofstops 137. Thestops 137 extend upwardly from thefront member 11 and have acushion region 139 on the end that is spaced apart from thefront member 11. Thestops 137 are disposed on thefront member 11 to engage thefoot pads 127 to stop further downward rotation of thefoot pads 127. - A
lever 145 is secured to eachrotatable cylinder 119 on the end of the cylinder that is adjacent thehorizontal base 21 of thefirst truss member 15. Thelevers 145 are disposed to extend upwardly from therotatable cylinders 119 and are disposed at an angle that is substantially the same as the angle at which thearms 123 are positioned on therotatable cylinders 119. Achain 149 is connected to the end of eachlever 145 that is spaced apart from therotatable cylinders 119. Thechain 149 that is connected to onelever 145 extends around the first one-way clutch 103 and thechain 149 from theother lever arm 145 extends around the second one-way clutch 107. The ends of thechains 149 that are spaced apart from thelevers 145 are connected to aspring member 155. Thespring members 155 extend from thechains 149 aroundidler rolls 157 and the ends of thespring members 155 that is opposite to the end that is connected to thechains 149 is secured to ahook 159 that is mounted on thetop cross member 25 of thefirst truss member 15. Thechains 149 are positioned on the first one-way clutch 103 and second one-way clutch 107 so that the clutches are engaged and cause thedrive shaft 91 to rotate when thefoot pads 127 are moved in a direction toward the U-shaped base 7 of theexercise device 5. When thefoot pads 127 are moving in a direction away from the U-shaped base 7, the first one-way clutch 103 and second one-way clutch 107 are not engaged and they can rotate freely and without causing thedrive shaft 91 to rotate. - Positioned on the
horizontal base 21 of thefirst truss member 15 is atension control 163. Thetension control 163 is connected to thetension belt 75 that is positioned in the groove 71 in theflywheel 73. Thetension control 163 can be activated to increase or decrease the tension on thetension belt 75 to vary the resistance to rotation for theflywheel 73. - In operation, a person desiring to use the
exercise device 5 will position his feet on thefoot pads 127 and place his hands on thehand grip bar 53. The user will stand in a relatively upright or vertical position on theexercise device 5. To initiate the exercise motion, the user directs a larger portion of his body weight onto one of thefoot pads 127 causing the foot pad to rotate on therotatable cylinder 119 in a direction toward theside members 9 of the U-shaped base 7. This motion for thefoot pad 127 will also causelever 145 to rotate in the same direction toward the U-shaped base 7. As thelever 145 rotates toward the U-shaped base 7 thechain 149 connected to thelever 145 is also caused to advance in a direction that will cause either the first one-way clutch 103 or the second one-way clutch 107 to be rotated in a direction whereby the one-way clutch engages thedrive shaft 91 and causes thedrive shaft 91 to be rotated. The advancement of thechain 149 causes thespring member 155 connected to the chain to be elongated. After onefoot pad 127 has been caused to move in a direction toward the U-shaped base 7, the user then positions a substantial portion of his body weight on theother foot pad 127 to cause that foot pad to advance toward theside members 9 of the U-shaped base 7. As theother foot pad 127 is advanced in a direction toward the U-shaped base 7, thelever 145 connected to this fool pad through therotatable cylinder 119 will cause thechain 149 to advance over one of the one-way clutches in a direction that engages a one-way clutch and causes thedrive shaft 91 to rotate. As onefoot pad 127 is advanced toward the U-shaped base 7, theopposite foot pad 127 is rotated away from the U-shaped base 7 by the force of thespring member 155 acting through thechain 149 on thelever 145 connected to therotatable cylinder 119 on which thefoot pad 127 is connected. When thefoot pad 127 is advancing away from the J-shaped base 7, the direction of travel of thechain 149 over the first or second one-way clutch is such that the clutch is not engaged and the clutch free wheels around thedrive shaft 91. In this manner, thedrive shaft 91 is alternatively driven by thefoot pads 127 as they are advanced toward the U-shaped base 7. However, the return motion of thefoot pads 127 away from the U-shaped base 7 does not engage the one-way clutches and does not cause thedrive shaft 91 to rotate. Thefoot pads 127 can be advanced toward the U-shaped base 7 until the foot pads engage thestops 137 positioned on thefront member 11 of the U-shaped base. - The motion that the user imparts to the
foot pads 127 is a sideways motion. That is, the user causes his foot to move in a sideways direction as saidfoot pads 127 are caused to advance toward saidside members 9 of the U-shaped base 7. The right foot will move to the right and the left foot will move to the left as the user activates theexercise device 5. The motion experienced by the user's feet on thefoot pads 127 is substantially perpendicular to the motion experienced by a person's feet when walking or running. The movement of thefoot pads 127 is in a direction that is substantially parallel to thefront member 11 of the base 7. - Rotation of the
drive shaft 91 causes thesprocket 95 to rotate along with thedrive shaft 91. Rotation of thesprocket 95 causes the drive means 99 to be advanced in a direction that engages the one-way clutch 67 that is positioned onshaft 65. The engagement of the one-way clutch 67 causes theshaft 65 to rotate which in turn results in the rotation of theflywheel 73 that is secured to theshaft 65. Rotation of theshaft 65 also results in the counter wheel 79 rotating and the countingpickup 85 can be utilized to determine the rotational speed of theflywheel 73. Rotation of theflywheel 73 is inhibited by the action of thetension belt 75 positioned in the groove 71 on theflywheel 73. Thetension control device 163 can be activated to increase the tension in thebelt 75 and thereby either increase or decrease the resistance to rotation for theflywheel 73. Increasing or decreasing the resistance to rotation for the flywheel also acts to increase or decrease the resistance necessary to move thefoot pads 127 in a direction toward the U-shaped base 7. The one-way clutch 67 is designed so that theshaft 65 can rotate freely when thesprocket 69 is not being advanced in a direction that causes the one-way clutch 67 to be activated. This allows theflywheel 73 to continue to rotate smoothly if the user of theexercise device 5 stops advancing thefoot pads 127. - When the
foot pads 127 move through the desired range of motion toward and away from the U-shaped base 7, thelink member 133 acts to control the angular position of thefoot pads 127. Thelink member 133 maintains thefoot pads 127 at an angle that is substantially about 10° to about 20° throughout the range of motion for thefoot pads 127. - FIGS. 5 and 6 show another embodiment of the present invention. To facilitate the description of this embodiment, the components that are the same as in the embodiment previously described will retain the same reference numerals, and only the different components will be given new reference numerals.
- In this embodiment, the
foot pads 127 are secured to therotatable cylinders 11 9 in the manner previously described. Asingle truss member 167 having ahorizontal base 169,sides 171 and atop cross member 173 is positioned on the end of the U-shaped base 7 that is spaced apart from thefront member 11. Alever 175 is connected to therotatable cylinders 119 on the end that is spaced apart from thearms 123 that support thefoot pads 127. Ashaft 177 is secured to eachlever 175 and the shaft extends from the lever in a direction toward thesingle truss member 167. A pair ofrods 179 extend through thetop cross member 173 of thesingle truss member 167. One end of ahydraulic cylinder 183 is connected to eachrod 179. The opposite end of the hydraulic cylinder is connected to theshaft 177 that extends from thelever 175 mounted on therotatable cylinders 119. Thehydraulic cylinders 183 are one-way hydraulic cylinders and only provide resistance when the cylinders are being extended. When the hydraulic cylinders are being compressed, there is essentially no resistance to this motion for the hydraulic cylinder. Positioned on the end of therod 179 that is on the opposite side of thesingle truss member 167 from thehydraulic cylinder 185 is anidler roll 185. Positioned around theidler roll 185 is aspring 187. One end of thespring 187 is secured to aplate 189 that is connected to thetop cross member 173. The other end of thespring 187 is secured to the end of theshaft 177 that is spaced apart from thelever 175. - The operation of the exercise device shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 is very similar to the operation previously described. As the
foot pads 127 are caused to advance toward the U-shaped base 7, thehydraulic cylinder 183 operatively connected through therotatable cylinders 119 to the foot pad will be caused to extend or elongate. The extension of the hydraulic cylinder will present resistance to this motion for thefoot pad 127. In addition, as thefoot pad 127 is advance toward the U-shaped base 7, thespring 187 will also be elongated also providing resistance to this motion for thefoot pad 127. When the weight of the user is shifted from aparticular foot pad 127 the force of theextended spring 187 will act upon thefoot pad 127 through therotatable cylinder 119 to cause the foot pad to move in a direction away from the U-shaped base 7. - The above detailed description of the present invention is given for explanatory purposes. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the whole of the foregoing description is to be construed in an illustrative and not a limitative sense.
Claims (23)
1. An exercise device comprising:
a base having two side members and front member that extends between said side members;.
at least one truss member extending from said base
a rotatable shaft positioned on said truss member;
a flywheel mounted on said shaft;
a rotatable drive shaft mounted on said truss member;
a first one-way clutch and a second one-way clutch mounted on said drive shaft;
a means for operatively connecting said drive shaft to said rotatable shaft whereby rotation of said drive shaft causes said rotatable shaft to rotate;
a pair of arms having a first end that is pivotally mounted on said base and a second end that extends from said base;
a foot pad positioned on the second end of each of said arms; said foot pads being disposed to move in an arcuate path towards and away from said side members of said base and the movement of said foot pads being in a direction that is substantially parallel to said front member of said base;
a lever operatively connected to each arm whereby movement of said arms causes a movement of said levers;
means for operatively connecting one of said levers to said first one-way clutch and said other lever to said second one-way clutch whereby movement of said arms towards said base causes said levers to rotate said first and second one-way clutches in a direction that causes said drive shaft to rotate which in turn rotates said shaft upon which said flywheel is mounted, said flywheel providing resistance to movement to said arms and said levers, movement of said arms away from said base rotates said levers in a direction that does not activate said first and second one-way clutches and does not cause said drive shaft to rotate.
2. The device of claim 1 wherein a one-way clutch is mounted on said rotatable shaft and said means for operatively connecting said drive shaft to said rotatable shaft connects to said one-way clutch whereby said one-way clutch causes said rotatable shaft to rotate in only one direction.
3. The device of claim 1 wherein a first and a second truss member extends from said base, said first and second truss members being substantially the same shape and size, the first and second truss members being disposed in substantially parallel relationship and extend in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to said base.
4. The device of claim 3 wherein said rotatable shaft and said drive shaft extend between said first and second truss members.
5. The device of claim 1 wherein a hand grip is positioned on said portion of said truss member that is spaced apart from said base, said hand grip providing a balancing support for a user of said device.
6. The device of claim 1 wherein said flywheel has a groove in its outer periphery and a tension belt is positioned in said groove, said belt being moveable to vary the tension on said flywheel whereby said resistance to rotation of said flywheel can be varied which varies the resistance to movement for said foot pads and levers.
7. The device of claim 1 wherein a pair of rotatable cylinders extend between said front member of said base and said truss member, one of said arms and one of said levers being secured to one of said rotatable cylinders whereby movement of said foot pads causes said cylinders to rotate.
8. The device of claim 7 wherein said levers have a first end connected to one of said rotatable cylinders and a second end that extends from said rotatable cylinder, said levers being positioned in adjacent spaced apart relationship to said truss member.
9. The device of claim 8 wherein said means for operatively connecting said levers to said first and second one-way clutches is a chain having a first end and a second end, the first end of said chain being connected to said levers, said chain extending over said one-way clutches and said second end of said chain being operatively connected to said truss member.
10. The device of claim 9 wherein said second end of said chain is connected to the first end of a spring and said second end of said spring is connected to said truss member, whereby said spring expands and retracts as said chain advances over said one-way clutch.
11. The device of claim 1 wherein a base plate is pivotally mounted on said second end of said arm and said foot pad is secured to said base plate.
12. The device of claim 11 wherein a link member is positioned to extend from said base plate to said front member of said base, said link member being pivotally secured to said front member and said foot pad, said link member acting to maintain said foot pad at a desired angle as said foot pad travels through its range of motion on said arm.
13. The device of claim 12 wherein said desired angle is from about 10° to about 20° with respect to the surface upon which said exercise device is positioned.
14. An exercise device comprising:
a base having two side members and a front member that extends between said side members;
at least one truss member extending from said base;
a pair of arms having a first end that is pivotally mounted on said base and a second end that extends from said base;
a foot pad positioned on said second end of each of said arms, said foot pads being disposed to move in an arcuate path towards and away from said side members of said base and the movement of said foot pads being in a direction that is substantially parallel to said front member of said base;
a lever operatively connected to each arm whereby movement of said arms causes a movement of said levers;
a hydraulic cylinder having a first end and a second end, the first end of hydraulic cylinder being connected to one of said levers, the second end of said hydraulic cylinder being connected to said truss member, said hydraulic cylinders providing resistance to movement to said arms and said levers.
15. The device of claim 14 wherein said hydraulic cylinders are one-way hydraulic cylinders that provide resistance when said hydraulic cylinders are extended when said foot pads are advanced in a direction towards said side members of said base.
16. The device of claim 15 wherein a spring is attached to said levers and to said truss member, said spring acting to bias said foot pads to return to a desired position.
17. The device of claim 16 wherein said spring has a first end and a second end, said first end of said spring is attached to each of said levers and said second end of said spring is attached to said truss member.
18. The device of claim 14 wherein a hand grip is positioned on said portion of said truss member that is spaced apart from said base, said hand grip providing a balancing support for a user of said device.
19. The device of claim 14 wherein a pair of rotatable cylinders extend between said front member of said base and said truss member, one of said arms and one of said levers being secured to one of said rotatable cylinders whereby movement of said foot pads causes said cylinders to rotate.
20. The device of claim 19 wherein said levers have a first end connected to one of said rotatable cylinders and a second end that extends from said rotatable cylinder, said levers being positioned in adjacent spaced apart relationship to said truss member.
21. The device of claim 14 wherein a base plate is pivotally mounted on said second end of said arm and said foot pad is secured to said base plate.
22. The device of claim 21 wherein a link member is positioned to extend from said base plate to said front member of said base, said link member being pivotally secured to said front member and said foot pad, said link member acting to maintain said foot pad at a desired angle as said foot pad travels through its range of motion on said arm.
23. The device of claim 22 wherein said desired angle is from about 10° to about 20° with respect to the surface upon which said exercise device is positioned.
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US10/663,380 US7438670B2 (en) | 1997-10-17 | 2003-09-16 | Exercise device for side-to-side stepping motion |
US10/860,179 US7097600B2 (en) | 1997-10-17 | 2004-06-03 | Exercise device |
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US09/577,914 US6679813B1 (en) | 1997-10-17 | 2000-05-24 | Exercise device |
US10/608,845 US7014596B2 (en) | 1997-10-17 | 2003-06-27 | Exercise device |
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US10/860,179 Continuation US7097600B2 (en) | 1997-10-17 | 2004-06-03 | Exercise device |
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US20080220943A1 (en) * | 2007-03-09 | 2008-09-11 | Paul William Eschenbach | Elliptical skier exercise apparatus |
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Cited By (2)
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US20080220943A1 (en) * | 2007-03-09 | 2008-09-11 | Paul William Eschenbach | Elliptical skier exercise apparatus |
US7425189B1 (en) * | 2007-03-09 | 2008-09-16 | Paul William Eschenbach | Elliptical skier exercise apparatus |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US7097600B2 (en) | 2006-08-29 |
US6679813B1 (en) | 2004-01-20 |
US7014596B2 (en) | 2006-03-21 |
US20040229733A1 (en) | 2004-11-18 |
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